Southborough Hub: contractor about to be appointed 15 March 2018 - full details on Hub page.++++ CONGRATULATIONS and THANK YOU to the SAMC team - open every day during the recent snow and ice! +++ HELP us ALL have a HAPPY EASTER: order your prescriptions early over the Easter period as we are closed on Friday MARCH 30 reopening on Tuesday APRIL 3. +++ APPOINTMENTS MISSED could mean being removed from our patients list - see revised policy on Appointments page. +++ See our new Self-Health corner at SAMC - check your height, weight, and blood pressure confidentially and get advice if necessary. + see latest news from KCC on the medical centre at the Southborough Hub.

Burns and scaldsCool a BURN with cool/lukewarm water for 10-30 minutes. Don't use ice/iced water/creams/greasy substances, e.g. butter. Remove clothing/jewellery near burn, don't move anything stuck to the skin. If it's starting to blister see the nurse.

Children and drugsHow would you know if your CHILD is on DRUGS?If you are concerned speak to your doctor.Look out for:Money problems; ​lying; change in their group of friends; teeth clenching; reduced motivation & trouble with school work; slurred/rapid fire speech; sudden dramatic weight loss/gain; wet lips/excessive thirst.

Childhood obesityHow to prevent this happening to your child? Also take a look at 'Sugar Smart' further down this page.Click here for an advice leaflet.

Dementia

Dementia is an umbrella term for various forms of neurological impairment which affect memory and create difficulties in thinking.Click here for an advice leaflet.

DepressionFeeling depressed or suffering uncontrollable anxiety and need to talk to someone? Self-refer for therapy to our counselling service or call 0300 012 0012.

Diarrhoea

Most DIARRHOEA episodes settle without any medical treatment within 4 days. Increase fluid intake. If it lasts more than 4 days provide us with a stool sample. If you see blood or pus in the stool see your Doctor as it may be a sign of bowel disease.

Diabetes: are you at risk? - 3 key messages

Pre-diabetes is a serious condition with a high risk of progressing to diabetes and heart disease

The good news is that these risks are often presentable

To prevent progrssion, patients need to make lifestyle changes in terms of healthier eating (losing weight) and increased physical activity

Ask Reception for a copy of the booklet - Are you ate risk of Diabetes?

Domestic abuseDomestic abuse doesn't have to be physical; words and behaviour hurt too. You can call the Domestic Abuse Volunteer Support Service for help and advice 01892 570538; www.davss.org.uk email: office@davss.org.uk.

Nose bleedsIf you have a NOSE BLEED sit down, pinch vessels in the soft part of your nose applying pressure for 10 mins. Repeat twice more if necessary and consider applying an ice pack. If you have regular nose bleeds see your Doctor.

ProstateAdvice for mem on prostate symptoms.Click herefor an advice leaflet.

SmokingGet help with quitting. Why not attend a STOP SMOKING CLINIC. You're 4 times more likely to succeed with a local service. Contact: 0800 849 4444 for more details.

Sports drinks sound healthy ………but FULL-FLAVOURED DRINKS, ENERGY DRINKS, SWEET TEAS, & SPORTS DRINKS mostly have added sugars which can increase the risk of obesity and diabetes.
Drinking too many 'sports drinks' can lead to palpitations of the heart and weight gain. These drinks are only beneficial for athletes who participate in intense sports or endurance activities such as marathon running. They can become addictive.

SugarYour children might seem fine on the outside, but too much sugar can cause tooth decay and lead to the build up of harmful fat on the inside that you can't see. Fat around vital organs can cause serious disease in the future, e.g. weight gain, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, -some cancers.Click here for an advice leaflet.

Uni soon?Ask us whether you'll need any booster jabs. If you spend more weeks at your Uni' address than at home, YOU MUST REGISTER with a GP practice near your Uni. Ensure you've enough medication to cover the period away from Uni. If you become unwell you can be seen as a temporary patient at a practice near your home for up to 15 days.

Warts & VerruccasAffect 30% of school children; most resolve themselves within 2 years. Unless painful, leave them to resolve naturally rather than spending ££s on freeze treatments.

WeightDo you want to lose weight?You can get help to reach and maintain a healthy weight. No shakes, no bars, no gimmicks! Just sensible, practical support and advice. Not keen on groups? No problem! You can also get one-to-one support from selected local pharmacies.

Drinking less reduces long-term risk of cancer, heart and liver disease and diabetes. Short term, drinking less can improve your skin, sleep patterns, mood and sex life.

Government guidelines (January 2016):

Not to drink - on a daily basis - more than 2-3 units = for example, 1 small glass of wine (175ml) or 1 pint of beer of 4% strength

To have a minimum of 2-3 days per week with no alcohol

Fitness

We all now we need to take plenty of exercise for our own good, so why not try the free outdoor gym just round the corner at Pennington Grounds.

Fancy a free game of basketball, volleyball or tennis on new courts in Pennington Grounds?

No need to book, nets provided, just bring your own equipment.

Healthy heart

What's the issue?When your heart beats it pushes blood through the arteries to your body. If this force puts too pressure on the arteries, it can raise the risk of heart attack, stroke or kidney disease.

Moles can develop at any age in a range of shapes/sizes/colours; If they change in character use the A-B-C-D rule to spot changes - see your Doctor if any apply.

A – Asymmetry: mole shouldn’t differ from one side to the other
B – Border: edges shouldn’t be blurred or jagged
C – Colour: look for changes in colour
D – Diameter: if a mole gets bigger or is larger than 6mm across.

Useful Health Links

The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider.

Arthritis

Arthritis FoundationThe Arthritis Foundation is the largest national nonprofit organization that supports the more than 100 types of arthritis and related conditions. Founded in 1948, with headquarters in Atlanta, the Arthritis Foundation has multiple service points located throughout the country. NHS ChoicesArthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation within a joint.
In the UK, around 10 million people have arthritis. The condition affects people of all ages including children.

Asthma

Asthma UKWe're the UK's leading asthma charity. There are over five million people with asthma in the UK, and we're here for them when they need us most.
We want to live in a world where asthma is no longer a daily battle for some and where no one dies from the condition. We're working to make this happen through world-leading research, award-winning information and services, and life-changing campaigns. NHS ChoicesAsthma is a common long-term condition that can cause a cough, wheezing, and breathlessness. The severity of the symptoms varies from person to person. Asthma can be controlled well in most people most of the time.WikipediaAsthma is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the airways characterized by variable and recurring symptoms, reversible airflow obstruction, and bronchospasm. Common symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

Back Pain

Bupa
Back pain commonly affects your lower back. It can be a short-term problem, lasting a few days or weeks, or continue for many months or even years. Most people will have some form of back pain at some stage in their lifetime. NHS ChoicesBack pain is a common problem that affects most people at some point in their life. It usually feels like an ache, tension or stiffness in your back.Patient.co.ukAbout 8 in 10 people have one or more bouts of low back pain. In most cases, it is not due to a serious disease or serious back problem, and the exact cause of the pain is not clear. This is called nonspecific lower back pain. The usual advice is to keep active, and do normal activities as much as possible. Painkillers can help until the pain eases. In most cases, the pain disappears within six weeks but may come back (recur) from time to time. Chronic (persistent) pain develops in some cases and further treatment may then be needed.

Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer CareBreast Cancer Care is here for anyone affected by breast cancer. We bring people together, provide information and support, and campaign for improved standards of care.NHS ChoicesBreast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. About 48,000 women get breast cancer in Britain each year. Most (8 out of 10) are over 50, but younger women, and in rare cases, men, can also get breast cancer.

Common Cold

Cold, Common - NHS ChoicesA cold is a mild viral infection of the nose, throat, sinuses and upper airways. It can cause nasal stuffiness, a runny nose, sneezing, a sore throat and a cough.Common cold - Wikipedia, the free encyclopediaThe common cold (also known as nasopharyngitis, rhinopharyngitis, acute coryza, head cold, or simply a cold) is a viral infectious disease of the upper ...

Diabetes

Diabetes - NHS ChoicesDiabetes is a lifelong condition that causes a person's blood sugar level to become too high.Diabetes UK – Care. Connect. Campaign. | Diabetes UKSelf help charity for diabetics. Information. Diet advice. Teenzone.Diabetes UK, UK Diabetes Resource, Diabetes Symptoms, Diabetes ...Diabetes.co.uk is your resource for diabetes, diabetics, diabetes research and education; the leading community website and forum for people with diabetes.Diabetes, type 2 - NHS ChoicesDiabetes is a lifelong condition that causes a person's blood sugar level to become too high.Type 2 Diabetes | Health | Patient.co.ukType 2 diabetes occurs mainly in people aged over 40. The first-line treatment is diet, weight control and physical activity. If the blood sugar (glucose) level remains high despite these measures then tablets to reduce the blood glucose level are usually advised. Insulin injections are needed in some cases. Other treatments include reducing blood pressure if it is high, lowering high cholesterol levels and also other measures to reduce the risk of complications.

Diarrhoea

Acute Diarrhoea in Adults. Loose Stools Treatment | Patient.co.ukDiarrhoea can be acute (sudden onset and lasts less than four weeks) or chronic (persistent). This leaflet deals with acute diarrhoea, which is common. In most cases, diarrhoea eases and goes within several days, but sometimes takes longer. The main risk is dehydration. The main treatment is to have lots to drink which aims to avoid dehydration. You should also eat as normally as possible. See a doctor if you suspect that you are dehydrating, or if you have any worrying symptoms such as those which are listed below...Diarrhoea - NetDoctor.co.ukDiarrhoea (spelled as diarrhea in the US) is the passing of increased amounts (more than 300g in 24 hours) of loose stools.
It is often caused by a virus or bacteria and can be acute (short term) or chronic (long term) – lasting more than two to three weeks.
Most people are affected by diarrhoea at some time in their lives. It is often accompanied by stomach pains, feeling sick and vomiting...Diarrhoea - NHS ChoicesDiarrhoea is the passing of watery stools more than is normal for you. It is often a symptom of an infection or long-term condition. In this video, Dr Rupal Shah...

Flu (Seasonal)

CDC - Seasonal Influenza (Flu)Flu activity is widespread in most of the country. High flu activity is likely to continue for several weeks. If you have not gotten your flu vaccine yet this season, you should get one now. And remember that flu antiviral drugs are a second line of defense to treat flu illness. People at high risk of serious flu illness should call a health care provider if they get flu symptoms.Flu season - Wikipedia, the free encyclopediaFlu season is an annually recurring time period characterized by the prevalence of outbreaks of influenza (flu). The season occurs during the cold half of the year in each hemisphere. Influenza activity can sometimes be predicted and even tracked geographically. While the beginning of major flu activity in each season varies by location, in any specific location these minor epidemics usually take about 3 weeks to peak and another 3 weeks to significantly diminish.
The 2013 flu season has been particularly harsh in the United States, where the majority of states were reporting high rates of influenza-like illness. The Centers for Disease Control reported that the available flu vaccine was 60% effective. It further recommended that all persons over age 6 months get the vaccine...Flu vaccine for adults - Vaccinations - NHS ChoicesFlu vaccination by injection, commonly known as the "flu jab" is available every year on the NHS to protect adults (and some children) at risk of flu and its complications.
Flu can be unpleasant, but if you are otherwise healthy it will usually clear up on its own within a week.
However, flu can be more severe in certain people such as: ...HPA - Seasonal Influenza
Influenza or 'flu' is a respiratory illness associated with infection by influenza virus. Symptoms frequently include headache, fever, cough, sore throat, aching muscles and joints.
Influenza occurs most often in winter and usually peaks between December and March in the northern hemisphere.
Illnesses resembling influenza that occur in the summer are usually due to other viruses....Seasonal flu - Health Information and Self Care Advice for Scotland Flu (influenza) is a highly infectious and very common viral illness that is spread by coughs and sneezes. It can make even healthy people feel very unwell for a week or more.
You can catch flu all year round, but it is especially common in winter which is why it is often known as 'seasonal flu'.Seasonal flu - NHS ChoicesFlu is a highly infectious and very common viral illness that is spread by coughs and sneezes.

Glandular Fever

Glandular Fever (Infectious Mononucleosis ... - Patient.co.ukGlandular fever (infectious mononucleosis) is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. Although it can make you feel quite ill, full recovery is usual. It is a self-limiting illness which means it usually goes away by itself.
What is glandular fever?
Glandular fever is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. This virus can be passed from person to person by close contact (especially kissing). It can possibly also be caught by sharing cups, toothbrushes, etc. It can take up to six weeks for the symptoms to develop after a person has first been infected with this virus. This is called the incubation period.
Who gets glandular fever?
Glandular fever can affect people of any age but is most common in young adults and teenagers. The immune system makes antibodies during the infection. This then usually provides lifelong immunity. This means that it is rare to have more than one episode of glandular fever...Glandular fever (infectious mononucleosis) - NetDoctor.co.ukWhat is glandular fever?
Infectious mononucleosis, commonly known as glandular fever, is a viral infection that's caused by the Epstein-Barr virus.
The disease is characterised by a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes (usually in the neck) and extreme fatigue.
Young people aged between 10 and 25 years are most vulnerable to this infection. The treatment is to ease the symptoms, and the illness usually passes without serious problems.
Glandular fever - NHS ChoicesGlandular fever is a type of viral infection that mostly affects young adults.
Common symptoms of glandular fever include:
- a high temperature (fever) of 38ºC (100.4ºF) or above
- sore throat
- swollen nodes (glands) in the neck
- fatigue (extreme tiredness)
Read more about the symptoms of glandular fever.
Glandular fever is not usually a serious threat to a person's health, but can be unpleasant and last several weeks. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infectious_mononucleosisInfectious mononucleosis (IM; also known as mono, glandular fever, Pfeiffer's disease, Filatov's disease, and sometimes colloquially as the kissing disease from its oral transmission) is an infectious, widespread viral disease caused by the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), one type of herpes virus, against which over 90% of adults are likely to have acquired immunity by the age of 40. Occasionally, the symptoms can recur at a later period. Most people are exposed to the virus as children, when the disease produces no noticeable or only flu-like symptoms. In developing countries, people are exposed to the virus in early childhood more often than in developed countries. As a result, the disease in its observable form is more common in developed countries. It is most common among adolescents and young adults.

Impetigo

Impetigo - NetDoctor.co.ukWhat is impetigo? Impetigo is a common, highly infectious skin disease caused by staphylococcus bacteria or more rarely by the streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. Is impetigo dangerous?
It isn't dangerous but it's an extremely contagious illness. Outbreaks can easily occur amongst close communities and institutions.
Occasionally the infection can spread to deeper layers of the skin, causing cellulitis; and to the lymph nodes, causing lymphangitis.
Impetigo - NHS ChoicesImpetigo is a highly contagious skin infection which causes sores and blisters. It's very common and affects mainly children.
There are two types of impetigo:
1. bullous impetigo, which causes large, painless, fluid-filled blisters
2. non-bullous impetigo, which is more contagious than bullous impetigo and causes sores that quickly rupture (burst) to leave a yellow-brown crust ...Impetigo - Wikipedia, the free encyclopediaImpetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection most common among pre-school children. People who play close contact sports such as rugby, American football and wrestling are also susceptible, regardless of age. Impetigo is not as common in adults. The name derives from the Latin impetere ("assail"). It is also known as school sores...Impetigo | Health | Patient.co.uk
Impetigo is a common infection of the skin. It is contagious, which means it can be passed on by touching. Most cases occur in children, but it can affect anybody of any age. Antibiotic cream usually clears the infection quickly. Antibiotic tablets or liquid medicines are sometimes needed.
What is impetigo and what does it look like? ...

Measles

Measles - NHS ChoicesMeasles is a highly infectious viral illness that can be very unpleasant and can sometimes lead to serious complications. However, it's now uncommon in the UK because of the effectiveness of the MMR vaccination.
The initial symptoms of measles develop around 10 days after you are infected. These can include...Measles - Wikipedia, the free encyclopediaMeasles, also known as morbilli, English measles, or rubeola (and not to be confused with rubella or roseola) is an infection of the respiratory system caused by...Measles. What is the measles? Symptoms and treatments | Patient.CO.UKMeasles is an infection that mainly affects children, but can occur at any age. It is rare in the UK, due to immunisation. The illness is unpleasant, but most children...

Mumps

Mumps - NetDoctor.co.ukThe virus is contagious for about two to three days before and up to seven to eight days after the disease breaks out. What are the symptoms of mumps?Mumps - NHS ChoicesMumps is a contagious viral infection that used to be common in children. It's most recognisable by the painful swellings at the side of the face under the ears ...Mumps | Health | Patient.co.ukMumps is an infection caused by a virus. It mainly affects the salivary glands but sometimes other parts of the body are affected. Mumps normally affects children, ...

Norovirus Infection

CDC - Norovirus Home Page Norovirus is a very contagious virus that can infect anyone. You can get it from an infected person, contaminated food or water, or by touching ...Norovirus - NHS ChoicesNorovirus, sometimes known as the winter vomiting bug, is the most common stomach bug in the UK.
The virus is highly contagious. It can affect people of all ages and causes vomiting and diarrhoea.
There's no specific cure for norovirus so you have to let it run its course. It's usually mild and shouldn't last more than a couple of days...Norovirus Infection Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, PreventionSymptoms and signs of norovirus infection include vomiting, watery diarrhea, and stomach pain. Read about treatment, diagnosis, outbreak ...

Pregnancy

British Pregnancy Advisory ServiceSupports reproductive choice by advocating and providing services to prevent or end unwanted pregnancy with contraception or by abortion.NCT - Pregnancy In this section, you can find out about what antenatal screening and testing you will be offered during pregnancy as well as how you might be feeling in terms of your antenatal health and physical symptoms. We also have articles about exercise, nutrition, being pregnant at work and the healthcare professionals that might care for you. We have lots of useful information for dads too.Pregnancy Week by Week, Pregnancy Information | Pregnancy.comFind week by week information for pregnancy, fetal development images, helpful tools and a free newsletter that follows your pregnancy week by week.Pregnancy | MumsnetMumsnet advice on your pregnancy from conception to birth, advice about pregnancy health, antenatal care, tests and scans, exercise, diet, ...Your pregnancy and baby - Pregnancy and baby guide - NHS ChoicesAll you need to know about pregnancy, birth and looking after a baby, including trying to get pregnant, foods to avoid, breastfeeding and bottle feeding.

Sciatica

Sciatica - NetDoctor.co.ukSciatica is defined as pain or discomfort associated with the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back, down the back of the legs to the feet.Sciatica - NHS ChoicesSciatica is the name given to any sort of pain that is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. There are two types, acute and persistent (chronic).Sciatica: What You Need to Know About Sciatica - Spine-HealthSciatica describes leg pain, numbness or weakness that starts in the low back and travels down the sciatic nerve in the leg causing sciatica pain.

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually Transmitted Diseases & Infections - STDsSexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are caused by infections that are passed from one person to another during sexual contact.
These infections often do not cause any symptoms. Medically, infections are only called diseases when they cause symptoms. That is why STDs are also called "sexually transmitted infections." But it’s very common for people to use the terms "sexually transmitted diseases" or "STDs," even when there are no signs of disease.Sexually transmitted diseases - NetDoctor.co.ukUnfortunately, in 2012 sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) have become more common in Britain than ever before. Last year, there were nearly half a million new cases of STDs reported from sex medicine clinics, with 427,000 being recorded from England alone.
This increase is undoubtedly because more and more people are having enjoyable, but sometimes risky, sex lives – often with several partners...Sexually Transmitted Infections | Health | Patient.co.ukThis leaflet gives some brief information about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and what you are advised to do if you suspect that you have an STI....STIs (sexually transmitted infections) - Live Well - NHS ChoicesIntroduction to articles and videos on sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Includes chlamydia, HIV, herpes, symptoms, and where to get tests and treatment.

Stress, Anxiety, Depression

MindWe won't give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect.
Every year, one in four of us will experience a mental health problem.
But hundreds of thousands of people are still struggling to get the support they need. Still unable to access the services that could change their life. Still facing prejudice and misunderstanding.
Mind believes no one should have to face a mental health problem alone. We'll listen, give you support and advice, and fight your corner. And we'll push for a better deal and respect for everyone experiencing a mental health problem.NHS ChoicesStress is the feeling of being under too much mental or emotional pressure.
Pressure turns into stress when you feel unable to cope. People have different ways of reacting to stress, so a situation that feels stressful to one person may be motivating to someone else.

Thrush

FPA - Thrush and Bacterial vaginosis: causes, symptoms, treatment Thrush is an infection that is caused by a yeast fungus. It is not a sexually transmitted infection but can sometimes develop after you have had sex
Thrush can develop in the vagina and on the male and female genitals. It is a very common cause of unusual vaginal discharge – three out of four women will have thrush at some point in their lives. Most men will not get thrush.
Thrush, men - NHS ChoicesBoth men and women can get thrush though it is more often associated with ...Vaginal thrush (female candidiasis) - NetDoctor.co.ukWhat is thrush?
Vaginal thrush is a common condition caused by a yeast infection in the vagina and surrounding area.
The infection is usually Candida albicans, but is also known as candida or vulvovaginal candidiasis.
Candida lives harmlessly on the skin, in the mouth, gut and vagina and is normally kept under control by harmless bacteria.
But sometimes conditions change and the yeast increases rapidly, causing symptoms of discharge and irritation.
Vaginal thrush - NHS ChoicesMost women experience occasional bouts of a common yeast infection known as vaginal thrush. It causes itching, irritation and swelling of the vagina and ...

Weight

What's the issue?

If you are overweight or 'obese' you are at higher risk of developing serious health problems, like heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.

1 in 4 adults is 'obese';

3 in 10 boys and girls (aged 2 to 15) are overweight or 'obese'

1 in 10 children aged 4-5 years are 'obese'

If you are overweight or 'obese' you are at higher risk of developing serious health problems, like heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes

You can you tell if you have a weight problem from your BMI (body mass index) - an estimate of how much fat you have in your body, using your height and weight measurements.

You can calculate it yourself by dividing your weight (in kilos) by your (height x your height, in metres); or you can ask your Doctor to do it for you.

If your weight is normal you have a BMI of between 18.5 and 24.9. If you have a BMI of over 25, start thinking about making some lifestyle changes - it really is in your interests.